Jerusalem nonprofit cited for innovation

February 4, 2008 10:00am

A Jerusalem-based nonprofit won an award for innovation.

The Bemaaglei Tzedek organization was chosen for the annual Ernst & Young Israel Innovation in Society Award. The honor salutes an Israeli organization that demonstrates entrepreneurial creativity, initiative and originality on behalf of Israeli society.

Bemaaglei Tzedek has become well known since its founding in 2004 for its efforts on behalf of contract workers. It also introduced the “Tav Chevrati,” or Social Seal, which cites restaurants that demonstrate good employment practices. Nearly 400 restaurants across Israel have received the seal, and the organization has been credited with bringing the issue of workers’ rights to the forefront of public awareness.

Asaf Banner, the managing director of Bemaaglei Tzedek, said the recognition from Ernst & Young shows that Israeli business leaders have recognized the group’s work along with the socially conscious.